Coat tales: Winter toppers come in all shapes and sizes

Long gone are the days when women only had one or two toppers in their winter wardrobe. These days, the more truly is the merrier.

Whether considering a statement coat, a 9-to-5-chic number or a workhorse piece that’s going to be putting in some hard time in your daily wardrobe, there’s seemingly always a new silhouette to add to your collection come winter. And this season is no exception.

Shoppers can play it safe by purchasing a classic trench coat or a luxurious wool topper in camel or black that will last them for years to come, or they can opt for something a bit oversized — or specialized — such as a winter-worthy parka or sherpa coat.

This winter’s coats, much like the people who wear them, come in all shapes and sizes. The prevalence of playful textures, prints and proportions are ensuring the season’s best new outerwear options are cool, while being warm, of course.

So, go ahead, add another coat to your closet (just be sure to donate those ones collecting dust bunnies at the back of your wardrobe first). It is winter, after all, so you’re going to need a great coat for the foreseeable future. One could reason it’s practically a necessity. For your very survival. Or something along those lines …

Classic camel

A chic robe coat in a classic camel colour is always a good investment. Look for one that has a relaxed (yet not sloppy) silhouette like this “Abraham” coat from Babaton, which is made all the more luxe thanks to its fabric of pure wool bouclé sourced from a premier Italian mill.

Warm and fuzzy

Looking to give yourself a serious case of the warm and fuzzies this fall? Consider picking up this sherpa collarless coat from Gap. The design, which also comes in navy blue, offers a quick texture update to even the most basic of winter outfits.

Rouge ready

This bright red beauty from the Quebec-based brand Sosken is sure to chase the winter blues away. A red blazer is a surprisingly versatile topper and can be paired with a variety of hues such as camel, grey, cream and even orange for a look-at-me appeal. Just skip wearing it with tan pants and tall boots, as the look takes the whole “equestrian trend” a little too literally.

Added interest

Texture? Check. Graphic prints? Check. Moody slashes of black and grey? Check, check. This coat-cardigan hybrid (is it a coatigan?) from Bench satisfies several of the season’s top sartorial cravings. Pair it with a black turtleneck and ankle-length trousers with a cool wool hat for extra style points.

Best vest

Puffer coats are having a huge moment in fashion right now, but the easiest way to incorporate the larger-than-life jackets into your closet is in the form of a puffer vest. This Canada Goose HyBridge Lite quilted vest is lightweight and perfect for layering — try it worn under a tailored blazer for an editorial-worthy look. Bonus points for the slimming black shade, because when it comes to these voluminous toppers, every optical illusion and sleight of styling helps.

Denim days

Denim is one of the biggest textile stories of fall/winter 2016. Basically, the more blue the better. This classic style from Old Navy is lined with sherpa fabric for extra warmth — and a cool ’70s appeal. Wear with cropped denim trousers in a slightly contrasting shade of blue with suede ankle boots for a city-meets-Wild-West allure.

Old Navy | $54.94

True trench

Shouting “rain, rain, go away!” at the sky may feel productive in the dead of winter, but the best way to fight back against those seasonal showers is by stepping out in a water-repellent trench coat. The style is simple and timeless, so you won’t need to replace it in a year’s time.

Zara | $119

Great Canadian

This made-in-Toronto coat from Horses Atelier may just be the ultimate outerwear option for the “cool girl” who’s is looking to get, well, even cooler. Dubbed the Alchemical Coat, the slouchy style features dropped shoulders (to comfortably accommodate the season’s chunky knits) and oversized front pockets (to hold all your hand and head-warming accessories).

Punchy poncho

The pretty popover provides an easy way to add plaid to your wardrobe without too much thought. The wool-blend “Sissi” cape by Canadian label The Melow par Melissa Bolduc can easily be thrown on over a lightweight sweater and jeans for an on-season outfit that’s suitable for work or the weekend.

Soft touch

Some days, you just want to wear leggings and tall boots. Looking for a piece to pair with said uniform? Consider throwing on this velour cape in bordeaux with faux leather detailing. The rich, wine shade makes this soft shell feel extra elegant, while the open sleeves aid in the never-ending battle between the season’s varying indoor-outdoor temps.

RW&CO. | $169.90

True North

Canada gets cold. Period. Whether you’re braving the weather on the slopes or are struggling through a snowy street, there’s no better way to beat the winter chills than with a parka. The “Aleutian” parka from MEC features synthetic insulation and a 100 per cent waterproof shell — that’s also breathable — so you can keep warm and dry when you’re stuck waiting for the bus.

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